The History of the
Martin Township Public Library
Colfax, IL

The first library in Colfax was sanctioned as a WPA project. In 1942, it became apparent that this system was being terminated. Plans were made for a referendum vote for the establishment of a public library. The referendum passed on July 13, 1943 making Martin Township Public Library a reality. The first librarian was Ricky Grending and the first library was in the Grending Building on Main Street in Colfax. Twelve years later Mrs. Grending resigned and Mrs. Lorene White became librarian. The library was also moved that year to the Cobb Building. The library was later moved to the front of Harper's Furniture Store and then back to the Cobb Building before acquiring the building at 103 S. Center St. in Colfax. In December 2002 Mr. Don Wilber donated the building at 132 W. Main St. to the library. After replacing the roof, installing a new heating and air conditioning system, and renovating the interior, the library opened at its current location on June 1, 2003. The library joined the Corn Belt Library System in May of 1967 and is currently a member of RAILS, Reaching Across Illinois Library System. 

Past librarians include; Ricky Grending, Lorene White, Mary Sutter, Donna Herrin, Carlene Mathis-Kull, and Joyce Carmack, along with several assistant librarians. The current director is Jilla Young with Rose Dietz serving as library clerk.